Embrace Love

Sometimes things in life take a back seat, yet we must never forget to "Embrace Love". Here's our long overdue winner of our February Giveaway with the phrase sent to us by Nicole! A two tone Brass with Sterling Silver Flower pendant, both domed to give it wonderful circular raised look. Looks great paired with a Sterling Silver Bead chain. Thank you all for entering! - CT

Giveaway Last Day To Enter

Hurry! Last Day to let us know your favorite phrase or saying for a Free Personalized Pendant (if selected) when you order a sterling silver chain of your choice!

Do you have a phrase or saying that is special to you? Let me know what it is and a few words below as to why it is special to you. If selected, it will be used for our New February "Design It Your Way" Jewelry Design and it will be showcased on our blog. (hint: try to keep it no more that 25 letters including spaces so it fits on a round quarter size sterling silver pendant)

Good Luck! - CT

February Giveaway

Keep words of inspiration close to your heart at all times with our collection of inspirational jewelry! Do you have a phrase or saying that is special to you? Let me know what it is and a few words below as to why it is special to you. If selected, it will be used for our New February "Design It Your Way" Jewelry Design and it will be showcased on our blog. (hint: try to keep it no more that 25 letters including spaces so it fits on a round quarter size sterling silver pendant)

Plus the best part is if your phrase or saying is selected you'll receive the pendant for Free when you order a sterling silver chain of your choice! Hurry, you only have until Friday, January 22 to let us know what your special message is. Enter as many times as you like. Good Luck! - CT

Rewarding Relationships

Every entrepreneur knows that to build a successful business it's all about relationships. Relationships can make or break your business. It's not just about communicating with new customers and prospects but nurturing the ones you currently have. You want them to be so happy that they keep coming back and they tell their friends and family how much they loved the experience they had with your business.

Vendors are one of those relationships that you should treat as “honorary” members of your business (I rather call them friends). They may not necessarily work for you directly but indirectly they service you and your company regularly. Without them you would not be able to offer your product at a competitive price or keep your business running smoothly.

One of the best ways to create a positive relationship is to acknowledge them when they have gone above and beyond the call of duty to make you happy. One of our long standing relationships has been with Artbeads.com. They are a leading suppliers of beads, Swarovski crystal, and jewelry-making supplies. Their products are of the highest quality and they have one of the best on-line shopping experiences around.

For us it's been a wonderful relationship because they care about us and know we're a small business on a budget. Artbeads.com lets us keep our inventory low by letting us buy what we need when we need it and shipping is free. Plus with every order we get their business card with a coupon on the back for potential discounts off our next order (great marketing tool I must add). Talk about taking care of your relationships...it's those types of financial gestures that make a big impact for our bottom line.

Just look at our recent design made with Silver components from Artbeads.com for our new 2010 Design It Your Way Hearts to Hearts Valentine Collection. I just love this beautiful 21mm detailed sterling silver “Love Flowered Pendant” from Israel. A tiny sterling silver heart charm and a freshwater pearl was added onto a 30” opera length Rollo chain to compliment the pendant. A match made in heaven with the coordinating bracelet and earrings (All hand crafted from high quality Artbeads.com components).

So bottom line it's those relationships that make all the difference. Take care of them and strive to make sure they get as much value out of their relationship with you as you do with them and always look for ways to show your key players that you appreciate them. It's can be very rewarding. - CT

Disclosure: This blog is a personal blog written and edited by the owners of CT Jewelry Designs, Inc. We are not compensated to provide opinion on products, services, websites and/or various other topics. The views and opinions expressed on this blog are honest and purely those of CT Jewelry Design, Inc. For questions about this blog, please contact carolyn@ctjewelrydesign.com. The following items were received as free samples and free of charge from the Arteads.com Blogging Program: SS-PEND048, Sterling Silver Love Flowered Pendant; CHARM403, Sterling Silver Tiny Heart Charm; 925CH7, 070 Rollo Chain; SS-EAR18, Ball End Earwire .8mm; EWC20 Clear "Rubber" Earwire Clutch

Health, Happiness, Love, and Prosperity

This year marks our 4th year in business. I can't believe how quickly the time has passed! I would like to thank all of you for helping us create a company where we can be part of your creative minds in order to "Design It Your Way".

In just a short time our "Xpress Yourself" Jewelry Collection has expanded to include over OVER 200+ Sterling Silver Tags and Charms with GENUINE Swarovski Crystals in 50+ Sparkling Colors. We also now offer ONE OF A KIND Personalized Hand Stamping which provides you with a special custom message feature for an exceptional gift for any occasion.

CT Jewelry Design is dedicated not only to feature the latest and hottest jewelry trends, but to provide a positive shopping experience through quality customer service at an affordable price. With our Easy 3 Step Process you'll discover the perfect personalized gift, with FREE Shipping, a FREE Gift TIN and Organza POUCH with Every Item. 100% SATISFACTION GUARANTEE no questions asked.

Thank you again for a wonderful journey! May this year bring you Health, Happiness, Love, and Prosperity! - CT

Well-Equipped - Green Tip

Before the cold weather hits, take stock of your wooly socks. Locate your hats, mittens, gloves and sweaters. Wash anything that didn't get cleaned before it was put away. Inspect your boots so you know all is in order.

Being well-equipped and knowing what you already have on hand will help you save from buying any unnecessary items this winter season.

This is also a great time to organize an office-wide holiday drive for coats and blankets for the less fortunate while giving co-workers an opportunity to clean out closets and preventing items from going to the landfill. - CT

Can It Delicious– Green Tip

What's sweet...spiced...absolutely delicious, and perfect for this time of year? Why Apple Butter of course! With so many ways you can eat it...on fresh baked bread or toast, braised meats and/or vegetables...it's perfect served warm or cold. Consider preserving some of the bounty of your harvest this fall. Whether you grew it or someone else did you can still eat local during the cooler months by canning it to preserve your foods.

Proper canning requires carefully selecting and washing fresh foods. Make sure you use the appropriate processing jars and self-sealing lids as growth of undesirable microorganisms-bacteria, molds and yeasts can spoil the food. Use good vacuums tight seals to keep liquids in and air out.

Make sure you keep your canned foods stored in a cool, dry place to retain optimum eating quality. Properly canned food can be retained for a least 1 year, but canned food stored in a warm place or indirect sunlight may lose some of its eating quality in just a few weeks or months, depending on the temperature. Dampness can also corrode cans or metal lids to spoil foods.

Check out The National Center for Home Food Preservation for more tips and recipes. The Center offers a wide source of research-based recommendations for most methods of home food preservation addressing food processing and food safety concerns.- CT

Once Is Not Enough

Next month is National Breast Cancer Awareness Month (NBCAM). Since the program began in 1985, mammography rates have more than doubled for women age 50 and older and breast cancer deaths have declined.

This is exciting progress, but there are still women who do not take advantage of early detection at all and others who do not get screening mammograms and clinical breast exams at regular intervals.

-Women age 65 and older are less likely to get mammograms than younger women, even though breast cancer risk increases with age.

-Hispanic women have fewer mammograms than Caucasian women and African American women.

-Women below poverty level are less likely than women at higher incomes to have had a mammogram within the past two years.

-Mammography use has increased for all groups except American Indians and Alaska Natives.

“If all women age 40 and older took advantage of early detection methods – mammography plus clinical breast exam – breast cancer death rates would drop much further, up to 30 percent”.

“The key to mammography screening is that it be done routinely – once is not enough.” Schedule your appointment today with your healthcare provider!

For more information about NBCAM, please visit www.nbcam.org. For additional information, please call one of the following toll-free numbers: American Cancer Society, (800) 227-2345, National Cancer Institute (NCI), (800) 4-CANCER, Y-ME National Breast Cancer Organization, (800) 221-2141.

The National Breast Cancer Awareness Month program is dedicated to increasing public knowledge about the importance of early detection of breast cancer. Fifteen national public service organizations, professional associations, and government agencies comprise the Board of Sponsors, who work together to ensure that the NBCAM message is heard by thousands of women and their families.

Show Your Support For Breast Cancer Research
During the months of September and October 2009, CT Jewelry Design.com will donate a portion of the proceeds from the sale of any sterling silver ribbon charm jewelry or accessories to the American Cancer Society.

"To Purchase Click Here or Image Above"

Announcing The Winner of the Express Yourself Jewelry Giveaway!

Finally, the moment you've all been waiting for! We're so pleased that this giveaway was a success! Thank you all for entering the givaway and for all your wonderful and kind comments, blog posts and tweets about CT Jewelry Design.com. It is really appreciated! We used Random.org to randomly determine the the winner for this giveaway and the lucky person is...

Nyblaque

Congrats to Nyblaque! Please respond to our email within 72 hours so we can personalize your charm otherwise we will have to select a new winner. Thank you all again for participating! - CT

P.S. We feel this giveaway went so well we're going to hold another one soon so stay tuned to enter the next CT Jewelry Design Giveaway! :)

Last Day to Enter Giveaway!

Last Day to Enter the "Express Yourself Jewelry Giveaway". You have until Midnight July 31st to enter. The Winner of the beautiful “Express Yourself” Charm Necklace will be announced on Saturday, August 1, 2009. See rules below. Good Luck! - CT

Express Yourself Jewelry Giveaway

Have you ever wanted to “Express Yourself” with your jewelry? Here's your chance to do it for free by entering the “Express Yourself” Giveaway! Create a one-of-a kind precious moment and a lifetime of memories with a Custom Sterling Silver Charm Necklace from CT Jewelry Design.com. From children names, favorite phrases and special dates to be remembered this handcrafted charm will be treasured for a lifetime. Great as a keyring for boyfriends, husbands, fathers and grandfathers too.

Each custom charm is of heirloom quality and hand-stamped to remind you of those special moments in life. The hand-stamped technique is truly unique and personalized by individually placing each mark on the disk by hand. The natural variations make each piece distinct and creates character. This is not a flaw, simply part of the handcrafted charm of your piece.

Tell your story with a personalize jewelry piece. It's definitely a fun way to express your interest, personalize a gift or add a touch of whimsy to your jewelry. The “Express Yourself” Charm Necklace Giveaway is a sterling silver 25mm round disk charm (approx. quarter size) with your personal phrase on a 30” adjustable black leather slip knot cord and two small charms; one freshwater pearl and a Swarovski crystal. Retail $29.00. Shipping is free to US and Canada residents and it will come with a complimentary gift tin for gift giving.

Giveaway Guidelines:

1. Just take a look around CT Jewelry Design.com and leave a comment here on the blog about your favorite item.

2. To get your name in the hat a second time while your at our site subscribe to our monthly newsletter (lower right hand side) and leave a comment here on the blog that you have subscribed (or tell us you already receive our newsletter).

3. If you want to increase your odds even more to win the “Express Yourself” Charm Necklace, spread the word with a post about CT Jewelry Design.com or this fabulous giveaway for us on your Blog, Twitter, Facebook, etc., and leave a comment here on the blog with the URL for us to visit your post.

4. Maximum of five (5) USA and Canada entries per person only. Don't forget to make sure we can contact you via e-mail to let you know you have won and to discuss your personal phrase for the “Express Yourself” Charm Necklace Giveaway.

5. You have until midnight (EST) on Friday, July 31, 2009 to enter the “Express Yourself” Giveaway! Only one Winner will be selected.

6. The Winner of the beautiful “Express Yourself” Charm Necklace will be announced on Saturday, August 1, 2009. You will have 72 hours (3 days) to answer the e-mail, if not another drawing will be made.

Good Luck to All and "Express Yourself" whenever you can! - CT

For Beginner's: How do I leave comments on a blog?

Are you new to blogging and don't know how to comment on a blog? Writing a comment on a blog is as easy as sending an email (really it's that easy). Here is the link for how to leave a comment from Blogger.com. Read up then come back to enter and click "Post a Comment" or "Comments" below...

Fun In The Sun

Most of us love the summer with its wonderful fresh air and sunshine. But excess sun exposure can cause sunburn and skin damage. With the right precaution you can enjoy the sun safely. Choose a sunscreen that's right for you. Read the label and purchase sunscreen that is Paraben-free. Parabens have been linked to breast cancer. Apply it generously and apply it at least a half hour before you go out. If you plan to go swimming choose a waterproof sunscreen and reapply according to the instructions on the package.

Don't miss a spot and make sure you put it on your entire face, nose, ear tips, back of the neck, knees and arms. Don't forget your feet and toes. And for those hard to reach places like your back and shoulders have a friend help. Cover up with a hat and wear sunglasses that block UV light. Long term exposure to UV light can lead to cataracts, so keep those pretty eyes protected. If your not sure whether your sunglasses are adequately blocking UV have them checked by an optometrist.

Drink plenty of water to stay hydrated. Water is the best choice although if you are exercising, a sports drink can help to replace electrolytes. Remember that it's best to take frequent moderate portions of your drink as to much too quickly can harm you. If you are going to do some heavy physical activity try to do it in the morning or evening not during the midday heat between 10am and 4pm. Remember to minimize exposure, keep yourself cool in the shade with a cool drink and enjoy! - CT

A Good Party

Everyone loves to celebrate holidays, birthdays, babies, weddings and other affairs, so why not make your next party an eco-friendly one?

Use biodegradable streamers in your favorite colors that you can buy at party supply stores. This crepe paper disintegrates into the ground, leaving behind no waste. Twist the colors together or string them separately, to create a pleasing party atmosphere. Liven up walls, ceilings, trees, deck rails or chair-backs for a wonderful color scheme and party decoration.

Use cut flowers. Mother nature is often our best decorator. Liberally place flower pots around your party space and use them as centerpieces too. Once the party is over you can re-purpose them as gifts or continue to display them outdoors or transplant them in your garden.

Use reusable plates and cutlery vs plastic or paper throwaways that will only end up in our landfills after one use. I know...you will have to wash them but did you know that dishwashers are more efficient than hand washing. You'll also be saving on the cost of your party since you already own your reusables and can used them over and over. Besides...there's nothing worse than a soggy paper plate.

So remember just because you're going green, doesn't mean you have to sacrifice style. Ditch the burlap and go with crisp, white organic cotton tablecloths teamed with matching napkins tied with twine. Think eco-chic and have fun with it. - CT

Strip Tease At The Office-Green Tip

When we need office stuff...think green. Thinking “green” not only contributes to helping our planet, but also saving company dollars. Purchase a “power strip” for your home office so you can plug all your electronics into one place and unplug them all with a single pull at the end of the day. I did a Google Product Search and you can get a pretty good one for under $20.00. Electronics and appliances eat up energy even when they're not being used. This is know as “standby” or “leaking” electricity.

The wasted standby power of individual electronic devices is typically very small, but the sum of all such devices can be significant. To switch off several devices that are often used together such as a PC, a monitor and a printer it is advisable to use a switchable power strip or surge protector with multiple sockets. It's also recommended that equipment that needs a controlled shutdown sequence, such as I laser printer, not be plugged into such a strip as it can damage them. In those cases it's better to turn them off at the appliance.

A recent study from the University of California showed that the average California household pays between $50-70 every year to keep things humming while their electronics are just sitting around. So thing of what your home office saving might be and give Mother Earth a green strip tease at the office. - CT

Buying Pearls on the Internet

Pearls are coming back as a fashionable accessory. With it being the birthstone for June, it's also the symbol of purity, the third and thirtieth wedding anniversary gem, and the symbol of a happy marriage. It also makes the perfect gift for the bride-to-be and her wedding party.

Whether you're looking for the “must have” white pearl necklace or a pair of bold black pearl earrings, who can you trust to make an informed decision when shopping on the internet for pearls? How can you be confident when buying from a reputable source? As with shopping for anything else online, here are a few basic safeguards to consider:

Return Policy – A returns policy exceeds the legal minimum 7 working days which demonstrates confidence (10-30 days returns is typical).
Privacy Notice – A good privacy notice is easy to find, easy to read, and provides online visitors the opportunity to make informed decisions about the collection and use of their information.
Contact Information – The website should provide full “Contact Us” details . An address, telephone number as well as a business e-mail address.
Guarantee – A guarantee or warranty for workmanship of the goods (12 months is typical).
Payment Method – Clearly displaying the credit or debit cards accepted.
Shipping Cost – Any shipping or handling cost clearly displayed.
Testimonials – Genuine customer testimonials displayed.
Photos – Large blow-up detail photos of the goods.

CT Jewelry Design.com meets all the above criteria which is displayed on our website and upon request. We're always open to our customers' personal requests and would love to hear from you. Simply contact us at carolyn@ctjewelrydesign.com.

The pearl is the perfect piece of jewelry for any occasion. While there is no right or wrong way to chose pearls, there are a few things you should consider:

Color – While color is a matter of preference, rose or silver/white pearls tend to look best on fair skin types, while cream and gold-tone pearls are flattering to darker complexions.
Luster – The luster of a good-quality pearl should be bright, not dull. Any pearl that looks too chalky or dull indicates low quality.
Surface – Cleanliness of the pearl surface refers to the absence of disfiguring spots, bumps or cracks. A pearl with a clean surface will have a higher value than a spotted, bumpy or cracked one.
Shape – It is very rare to find a perfectly round pearl. While rounder pearls are more valuable, asymmetrical or baroque pearls have a unique charm and are available at a more reasonable cost.
Size – Pearls are measured by their diameter in millimeters. The average pearl sold today are between 7 and 7.5 millimeters. Typically, the larger the pearl, the more valuable it will be.
Akoya Pearls – These are the classic cultured pearls. They are the most lustrous of all pearls and the most expensive.
Freshwater Pearls – These pearls are easily cultivated from freshwater mussels rather than saltwater oysters. They are produced in great abundance and are moderately priced. Their unique shapes and beautiful pastel colors make them perfect gems for those on a budget.
Swarovski Crystal Pearls – While there are many faux pearls on the market, Swarovski crystal pearls are manufactured pearls with the base being an actual crystal bead that has been finished with layers of highly luminous pearlescence. They are considered one of the finest products of their kind in the world.

Remember you get what you pay for, so buyer beware of all those “unbelievable offers”. Pay attention to suppliers who inflate their prices to then reduce prices by 60-70%. This is simply a marketing tool. The best advise is studying and comparing pearls with a reputable e-tailer for your pearl purchase. - CT

How Is A Woman To Choose?

There are so many kinds of pendant necklaces, how is a woman to choose? They say there is something out there for everyone, and for me one of my personal favorites is this Sterling Silver CZ Heart Pendant Necklace. It's classic beautiful and most of all romantic.

The heart has long been referred to as the symbol of spiritual, emotional and moral core of a human being. The word heart continues to be used poetically to refer to the soul and represents togetherness and eternal love. A bride would love this for her special wedding day!

Then there's the beautiful CZ's on the double hearts that represents togetherness. Cubic Zirconia (CZ), is a beautiful high quality synthetic/lab created stone which simulates a diamond at a fraction of the cost. This Sterling Silver CZ Pendant Necklace at ctjewelrydesign.com with a snake chain and lobster clasp is so affordable at $21.00, it makes it possible for you to develop a nice collection of different pendants necklaces without blowing your budget. - CT

What's In A Stone?

Have you ever been curious as to what a particlar stone means or what physical or emotional healing properties it may have? Since it's May let's start here with a series of monthly birthstone tips.

The beautiful Emerald is the birthstone for May and is a symbol known for goodness.

The name Emerald means green from the Greek word smaragldus.This stone is believed to possess physical and emotional healing properties. It was a popular stone used by the Egyptian royals and was regarded as a sacred stone. It has been said to grant the wearer foresight, good fortune and is attributed with the ability to calm emotions and soothe emotional hurt.

Emeralds come in many shades of green, from very bright to a deep green. Unlike other gems, flaws found in Emeralds are actually a sign of it genuineness. The “Emerald Cut” refers to the wide rectangle face with it many sides or facets. When purchasing an Emerald check out the cuts. The exactness of the cut will affect the price of the emerald. A good cut has facets that meet proportionately. - CT

Quick Tips to Keep the Sparkle

Jewelry still symbolozes love and commitment. So how do you protect and keep your jewelry like new for a lifetime? Each CT Jewelry Design is made to provide many years of enjoyment. Here are some quick care tips to protect that sparkle:

To maintain the original luster of the jewelry, we recommend wiping the pieces with a soft non-abrasive silver cloth after removing or at least once per month.

Over time sterling silver may naturally begin to develop a delicate silvery-gray patina. This is caused by oxidation and can give the piece an antique look which some may prefer.

For a bright shine, use a silver polish cloth to restore the original shine. Never use an abrasive polish as it can damage the surface.

The best way to protect sterling silver jewelry from oxidation is by keeping the piece stored in a sealed air tight plastic bag when not being worn.

Long exposure to direct sunlight can cause the color of stones to fade. Avoid storing the jewelry pieces in direct sunlight.

Chlorine can severely damage metals and gemstones, and can cause stones to become loose in settings. Please avoid wearing jewelry in chlorinated swimming pools.

Pearls can lose their luster after coming in contact with perspiration. An occasional gentle wash in lukewarm soapy water will restore their shine.

You don't need to leave your home to add a little sparkel to your jewelry collection. With quality jewelry, low prices, free US priority mail shipping, 100% satisfaction guarantee, made to order services and great customer care shopping at CT Jewelry Design is just a click away on your personal computer to help you look your best. - CT

Basic Jewelry Wardrobe Buying Guide

Every woman needs a wardrobe of classic clothes for those “what should I wear today” moments. Add a few fabulous pieces of jewelry to that wardrobe and you’ll always have the right accessories to feel great.

Here are a few tips:

Earring: A must have for every woman are diamond studs to complement dressy to casual clothes. Sparkling earrings with colorful gemstones can also capture the spotlight for that special dinner party.

Bracelets: A few white or yellow gold bracelets and/or silver bracelets are great accessories. They are great for jazzing up a plain blouse or suit. Consider a pearl bracelet with a beautiful clasp.

Necklaces: Choose at least one necklace with a pendant or multiple strands to add interest to open necklines. Diamond or pearl strands never go out of style. Cubic Zirconia (CZ) which comes in all colors is also a beautiful alternative to diamonds for a fraction of the cost.

Extras: Adding a gemstone ring or a watch is always smart and eye catching.

Each season is a time of renewal, so refresh your jewelry wardrobe with all the latest trends and new classics. Most importantly choose your jewelry carefully and make it your own style. - CT

Earth Day and Setting Up a Green Home Office

Earth Day is on April 22nd, an inspiring day of awareness and appreciation for our environment. As you may already know Senator Gaylord Nelson of Wisconsin, an environmental activist, conceived the idea on a trip he took to Santa Barbara after the terrible oil spill off our coast in 1969. He had been so outraged that he took a leading role in organizing the celebration and then passed a bill to celebrate the earth every year after.

You too can take the lead and be inspired to do your “Green” part as a small business owner. Make a difference by considering the following ways to save energy and resources by making environmental choices when setting up your home office.

Purchase Recycled Paper - Paper is typically the number one supply used in any office. Consider how you can reduce, reuse, or recycle paper (or better yet share electronic files with others). You’ll help reduce the number of trees needed to make paper, keep it out of the trash and reduce energy cost.

Electronic Media - Instead of sending newsletters or post cards by mail to advertise consider using an electronic mailing list where customers can opt into for all the important news regarding your company. There’s even an added bonus…you’ll save the cost of postage!

Subscriptions and Junk Mail – Cancel hard-copy subscriptions to newspapers, newsletters, and magazines you can access on line. If you don’t read it, you don’t need it. Then visit Direct Marketing Association at www.dmaconsumers.org/consumerassistance.html and take your name off mailing lists to reduce all that junk mail you've been trashing.

Recycled Furniture - Before you buy new furniture, consider gently used or refurbished furniture. Wood can be painted or stained and you can add some recovered cushions to match your personal decor. If you prefer new, seek out a manufacturer that recycles steel or aluminum in their furniture designs. The choices are many for Eco-friendly desks, chairs and cabinets.

Buy in Bulk and Refillable – Buy pencils and pens that are refillable. They can be refilled over and over again and remember to read the label before you buy to avoid any dangerous toxic inks. Save the environment (and money) from single packages and buy your writing tools in bulk.

Being in charge is probably one of the greatest benefits of small business ownership. The resources and energy saving actions we take as the decision makers can make a big difference in reducing waste and pollution. So remember to make the right environmental choices...reduce, reuse and recycle every day.
Happy Earth Day. - CT